U's Look to Stay At The Top

Oxford United return to league action on Saturday as they welcome Carlisle United to the Kassam Stadium.

The U’s sit proudly on top of the table and have made progress in both the Johstone’s Paint Trophy and Emirates FA Cup since climbing to the top with a win at Hartlepool.

However, First Team Coach Derek Fazackerley has warned that United are there to be shot at so long as they retain top spot.

“Teams will be looking at our position at the top of the league, starting with Carlisle, and thinking let’s see if we can put a hole in the bow” he told Yellow Player HD today.

“We have to be very careful and make sure we approach the games in the same way we have the first 20. There is pressure but it’s a fantastic place to be. We were looking at the start of the season to be in a position where we could be challenging the top of the league, but at this moment we are top, and I think on merit. Now we have to show that we’re good enough to stay there. That brings a different challenge every week.

“ Teams will be looking to shoot us down and we have to be tactically, mentally and physically strong enough to overcome that.”

Carlisle and the whole surrounding area has been devastated by floods this week, with players helping clear up the local community and repair some of the damage.

“Carlisle have had a tough week and what has happened can galvanise teams sometimes and give them a cause to play for” Derek said. “They have scored plenty of goals this season so we have to be on our toes and give them the same respect that we give everybody while doing our best to get the three points.”

United have plenty of big decisions to make with competition for every single place in the side.

“The players are in a sweet spot at the moment” Derek agreed. “We are where we all want to be but there is still a long way to go. We have to make sure that we go into the Christmas period in a positive fashion. There is plenty of competition and no matter who gets picked I’m sure they will be fighting for the cause.”

See the full interview plus an exclusive interview with Jake Wright and this week’s Preview Show, featuring Johnny Mullins and Wayne Brown, all in Yellow Player HD.

Get behind the U’s on Saturday. Tickets are available from www.oufctickets.co.uk and by calling 01865 337533